Silvaner

Silvaner is a typically German grape variety, and in 2009 is celebrating its 350th anniversary. Once the most important grape in Germany, today it accounts for some 7% of the country's plantings. A reasonably abundant producer, it likes average exposure to the sunshine and needs moist soil. It ripens about two weeks earlier than Riesling.

Depending on its origin, Silvaner can be aromatic and fresh with light dry aroma of herbs, or gooseberries and kiwi if its grapes are grown on light soils. On heavy soil, Silvaner has an opulence and aromas of ripe pears and hay, sometimes even artichoke. Silvaner makes a rather full-bodied, neutral wine with a mild acidity, and is generally best enjoyed while young.

A traditional variety in Franken, Rheinhessen and Saale-Unstrut, there are also extensive plantings in the Pfalz and an enclave in the Kaiserstuhl district of Baden. There are over 5,000 hectares of Silvaner in Germany.

 

See also our previous grape profiles, and related region profiles.